(Newser)
–
Scores of buildings have collapsed in Haiti after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck near the capital, Port-au-Prince, today, and was followed by a number of strong aftershocks, with two measuring 5.5 or higher. There’s no yet word on what’s expected to be a high death toll. An AP videographer saw the wrecked hospital in nearby Petionville, and a US government official reported seeing houses that had tumbled into a ravine.

In a statement this evening, President Obama said that his thoughts were with the people of Haiti, and that the US stands ready to help in whatever ways prove necessary. “There are emergency meetings going on right now," a State Department spokesman said. “We need to gather what information we can quickly. We will of course assist in any way we can.”

though i agree with you on a lot of the message, this also could sadly be what they need in an effort to "rebuild". a "rebuilding process" could turn into a huge employment source for many, not to mention make the city/country a lot more appealing to tourist and inputting a lot of money in the long run back into the country. That's all dependent on both the leadership and the desire of the people. only time will tell.. None the less, quite heartbreaking to see this happen, to anyone really.